Lesson with Mithril

Mithril is interested in general composition techniques also dealing with development of ideas.

Mithril has informed me that he has knowledge of basic theory and harmony. Therefore as the need arises the lesson may shift from composition techniques to a more theoretical lesson.

Mithril, our first lesson will deal with the techniques of diminution and augmentation of a theme.

I'm sure you have figured out that diminution is about diminishing or making smaller while augmentation is about increasing. Normally, we are used to hearing these types of terms used only with harmonies. But, they also apply to themes/lines of melody.

First, diminution deals with the diminishing of the note values in your original theme. If your theme consists of all quarter notes then a diminution of your theme might be presented in all eighth notes or sixteenth notes. Likewise, augmentation of a theme is in regards to increasing the note value of your original thematic idea.

I have included an attachment with an example. Take note that the diminution and augmentation of the theme was done according to a specific quantity throughout (for now).

If you understand this concept I would like for you to create a theme of about 3-4 measures and then created a diminution and augmentation as I have done.

Here it is, and sorry for taking so long!

And if it is not too much trouble, could you post the exercises in .mus? I can't really open .pdf files.

Thanks,

Mithril

1.MUS

Ok, seemed like you understood that well enough.

I'd like for you to try another one. Create a two new melodie one in 6/8, and one in 5/8. Then do one augmentation and one diminution.